Hysterics Over Golden Retriever’s Protest Over Owner’s Holiday Photo Shoot

Houses are decorated, the smell of cookies fills the air, and families are sending out their holiday cards. But one dog owner has learned the hard way that not everyone in the family is willing to partake in Christmas traditions.

The owner, known on TikTok as @baileyadamsfordani, planned to get photos of the family for this year’s Christmas card. The Christmas tree was up and decorated. They outfitted their golden retriever, Dani, with a festive sweater and a Santa hat. But Dani wasn’t having it.

Dani wore what she was told to wear, but when it came time for photos, she drew the line. She was “mad.” Dani wouldn’t move closer to the Christmas tree. She didn’t look over at the owner either. She wasn’t going to give up on her protest.

Amused by the dog’s reaction to the photo shoot, the owner knew it was too good to miss and started filming, which was then shared in a November 29 TikTok video. The caption reads: “I called out to her to look at me, but she sat in protest of photoshoot.”

Dani’s reaction surprised the owner, who wrote in the comments section she usually likes getting attention. But this showed the family that “apparently this is not a dress-me-up kinda dog.”

The clip has over 131,100 views, and people couldn’t get over the dog’s Grinch-like spirit.

“Now that is taking a stance,” commented one TikTok user, while a second added: “She’s like, ‘I’m not speaking to you right now.'”

Another viewer asked: “Was it the hat or the pjs that was the final straw?”

Someone else suggested: “Oh I would hide my shoes if I were you, that pup is plotting revenge.”

Newsweek reached out to @baileyadamsfordani via TikTok for additional information.

Posing With Dogs

The video of Dani refusing to participate shows how difficult it is to pose with dogs. But it isn’t impossible. The K9 Training Institute offers steps on how to help your dog look photo-ready. It starts with the pet knowing two commands: sit and stay.

Once your dog is sitting and staying nicely, use whatever motivates it the most, such as treats or toys. Place the treat in front of the camera and repeat the “stay” command. Your dog will likely be focused on the treat, making it easier to snap a picture.

Owners could also try teaching the “look at me” command. Every time your dog locks eyes, say “look at me” and reward it with a treat. Repeat the process until it catches on. Then use this command only when you’re ready with the camera.

Be aware of camera flashes because the brightness can be shocking and scary to some dogs. Keep the flash turned off as you teach your dog to pose for photos. You can slowly introduce flashes into other activities, such as playing with them. But, ideally, it’s best to keep the flash to a minimum because it can be damaging to the dog’s eyes.

Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.